The Encyclopedia of Angels

Assuming a multitude of guises and functions, these intermediaries between God and humanity remain a source of endless fascination and speculation. A compelling, comprehensive, A-to-Z guide to angels of all kinds, The Encyclopedia of Angels, Second Edition provides a scholarly reference to the origins, natures, functions, and manifestations of angels. Sure to delight and inform students, scholars, and laypeople alike, this second edition is the definitive source on the subject. Carefully executed and extensive revisions cover 50 percent more material than the previous edition, adding unsurpassed detail and accuracy to an encyclopedia that is already impressive in scope and authority.

Engaging, fact-filled entries cover topics such as the history of angelologies, individual angels, the importance of angels in major world religions, encounters with angels, and depiction of angels in art and popular culture. Several entries cover prominent historical figures, such as Charles Lindbergh, William Blake, and Carl Jung, who claimed to have experienced first-hand interaction with angels. In addition, many entries have been updated, rewritten, and expanded, particularly topical entries like those on drama, music, or film. The encyclopedia also contains an expanded bibliography and approximately 20 new illustrations as well as a new introduction and a foreword.

New entries cover: Individual angels (Abaddon, Metatron, Zuriel, and many others) Types of angels (angels of glory, angels of sanctification, patriarch angels, and many others) Biblical stories (Adam and Eve, Ark of the Covenant, and more) Myths and folklore (Fairies, Lincoln Imp, Olympic spirits, and more) Key figures such as theologians, philosophers, and mystics (Eleazar of Worms, St. Hildegard of Bingen, Meister Eckhardt, and others).